By Claire Brinsden Jordan
As the saying goes, April showers bring May flowers, and in so many brilliant colors and shapes! Among the 400,000 blooming plants on earth, it’s estimated that 70,000 are not just beautiful to gaze upon, but also offer medicinal benefits. These powerful blooms can alleviate a variety of ailments, from anxiety to skin problems. Here are some of the most widely used medicinal flowers and how they can help you heal naturally.
Calendula (Pot Marigold) is primarily used topically for its potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. It promotes the rapid healing of wounds, cuts, and scrapes on the skin by increasing blood flow to the affected area and fighting off bacteria. As an anti-inflammatory, it is also used to treat dermatitis, eczema, rashes, diaper rash and minor burns. Calendula is used in ointments, creams and infused oils for the skin, and in tinctures and teas as a mouthwash or to help with digestive issues like heartburn, ulcers, IBD, and reflux.
Chamomile is a versatile medicinal flower that has been used for thousands of years. Sometimes called the “star among medicinal species”, it was worshipped by ancient Egyptians. As an extract or a tea, it’s used to relieve seasonal allergies, calm nerves and reduce anxiety, and alleviate digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, and gas. Due to its antibacterial activity Chamomile is used topically to treat skin issues like eczema, rashes, and minor burns. Its anti-inflammatory properties ease menstrual cramps, arthritis, and rheumatic pain. Some studies also suggest chamomile tea can help regulate blood sugar levels and assist with diabetic complications. Chamomile should not be used with the blood thinner Warfarin, as it can enhance its effects.
Echinacea (Coneflower) is primarily used for immune support and can shorten the duration of respiratory tract infections like the common cold, influenza, and bronchitis. It contains substances that increase white blood cell activity and fight infections. I like to “nip colds in the bud” by drinking Echinacea/Elderberry tea as soon as I start to feel the symptoms. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of Echinacea can also relieve conditions like eczema, arthritis, and bee stings.
Elderflower is another potent medicinal flower used to treat respiratory illnesses due to its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and sweat-inducing properties to reduce fever. It is full of antioxidants that boost the immune system, reduce swelling of the mucus membranes, and clear congestion.
Hibiscus contains high levels of antioxidants and is widely used to lower blood pressure and protect liver cells from damage. It also provides metabolic support by reducing blood triglycerides and may help with weight management by inhibiting fat absorption. With its high levels of polyphenols, some preliminary studies have shown that Hibiscus can even kill cancer cells. Hibiscus should not be used with blood pressure or diabetes medications.
Lavender is widely used in aromatherapy as a sedative to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Inhaling it can also ease insomnia and improve sleep quality. In massage oils or creams, Lavender can alleviate muscle and rheumatic pain. It also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help with skin irritations and wound healing.
Nasturtium is another versatile medicinal plant with antibacterial and antifungal properties primarily used to treat respiratory infections like bronchitis, sinusitis and colds. With its high Vitamin C content Nasturtium also boosts the immune system and can alleviate urinary tract infections. All parts of the nasturtium plant are edible and can be added to salads or other dishes, but those with stomach ulcers or kidney disease should avoid it.
Passionflower has traditionally been used as a mild sedative to treat anxiety, stress, and restlessness by boosting GABA levels in the brain. It can also help you to fall and stay asleep, as well as ease menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Passionflower should be avoided before surgery as it can interact with anesthesia. I grow passionflower vine in my garden not only for its purple beauty, but because it’s the host plant of the Gulf Fritillary butterfly.
The mighty Rose has petals full of antioxidants, hips full of Vitamin C, and leaves full of tannins, making it a versatile medicinal flower with anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It is used to treat everything from anxiety and digestive upset to skin wounds and burns. Rose is also effective in treating gynecological issues by managing heavy menstrual bleeding, and easing cramps.
Yarrow has strong astringent and antiseptic properties, making it a star for treating wounds by stopping bleeding and contracting skin tissue. It is also used to aid digestion and induce sweating to break fevers. Yarrow can interact with sedatives, blood thinners, and lithium, and should not be ingested while pregnant as it can cause uterine contractions.
There are several locally owned businesses here in South Pinellas that sell medicinal flowers in various forms and offer knowledge in their use. You can find Herbal Artists on 49th Street South, Amurirose Herbal Shop on 4th Street North, The Sanctum Apothecary on 12th Street North, and Great American Natural Products on 16th Street North. While medicinal flowers are generally well-tolerated and safe to use, people with autoimmune diseases should avoid them. Those with known allergies to daisies, ragweed, or sunflowers should avoid their close relatives – Calendula, Chamomile, Echinacea, and Yarrow. You should consult a healthcare provider before using medicinal flowers, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. When it comes to health, nature provides a variety of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant rich flowers to help you on your wellness journey. Even the tiniest of flowers can provide powerful natural healing.